October is National Home Security Month

Autumn is upon us and it is a time when we spend less time in our gardens and garages. October has been chosen as National Security Month as statistics show house burglaries increase by 20% during the darker months. The National Home Security Month website has lots of information on how to secure your home. Each week of October they focus on a different topic eg Outdoor Security or Protecting Valuables. From a garage point of view, burglars are aware that garages nowadays are often full of expensive bicycles and sports’ gear therefore are a target. To prevent theft and to protect your valuables consider the following points:-·Many people have their homes alarmed but is your garage alarmed too? Wireless alarm systems can be easily extended to your garage. ·Whether alarmed or not, attach a visible sticker to your garage stating that it is alarmed. This can be enough for a potential burglar to move onto the next property.·Does your garage have a back door and/or a window? Check the lock mechanisms and the surrounding woodwork. Can they be easily broken? Burglars often find it easier to break the frame rather than pick or break the lock. The NHSM website states ‘External timber doors should be secured using a mortice lock and/or nightlatch that meets British Standard BS3621’.·If your garage does contain valuable equipment, then consider attaching it to your garage using anchor locks and cables. Some examples of these can be found on our Pinterest board – Bike Security At Home If your garage is old and can no longer be made secure, then contact me for information on installing a brand new garage. Call Paul on 07932637646.By Paul Mclean